Para Wirra Conservation Park
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the scenic South Australia region, Para Wirra Conservation Park is a nature lover's paradise. The park spans over 1,500 hectares of diverse landscapes, from rugged hills and gorges to lush woodlands and open grassy areas. This natural haven is home to an abundance of native flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers alike.
Visitors to Para Wirra Conservation Park can explore a network of well-maintained walking trails that wind through the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The popular Gawler View Trail provides hikers with a scenic overlook of the park and beyond, while the Lake View Trail takes adventurers on a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake, where they can spot kangaroos and native bird species.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, Para Wirra Conservation Park offers opportunities for mountain biking, rock climbing, and picnicking. The park is also equipped with barbecue facilities and picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing day out with family and friends.
History buffs will appreciate the cultural significance of the park, which is rich in Aboriginal heritage. The park's name, "Para Wirra," is derived from the local Kaurna Aboriginal language and means "river and creek," reflecting the importance of water sources to the traditional owners of the land.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Emu
The emu, a bird indigenous to Australia, is the second-largest living bird by height, surpassed only by the ostrich. These soft-feathered, flightless birds can stand up to 1.9 meters tall and are easily identifiable by their long necks and legs, along with their brown...
Birds
Short-beaked Echidna, Spiny Anteater
The short-beaked echidna is one of nature’s most unique and captivating creatures. It is one of four extant echidna species and the only one classified in the Tachyglossus genus. This spiny mammal is enveloped in fur and spines, distinguished by its characteristic...
Mammals
Superb fairywren
The superb fairywren, a charming bird from the Maluridae family, is a common sight in southeastern Australia. Renowned for its striking sexual dimorphism, the males boast vibrant blue feathers, while the females and non-breeding males exhibit a more subdued grey-brown...
Birds
Grey currawong
The grey currawong is an intriguing bird native to southern Australia, including Tasmania. This large passerine, belonging to the genus Strepera, is closely related to butcherbirds and Australian magpies. With its dark plumage accented by white undertail and wing...
Birds
Common brushtail possum
The common brushtail possum is a captivating nocturnal marsupial native to Australia. It is the second-largest species of possum. These creatures are primarily folivores, which means they mainly consume leaves, especially eucalyptus, although they occasionally feed on...
Mammals
South Australia